Russian President Vladimir Putin avoids criticizing Trump’s climate accord decision

Russian President Vladimir Putin has sought to assuage concerns caused by President Trump’s decision to pull the United States out of the Paris climate accord, calling for a constructive dialogue on efforts needed to curb global warming.

Speaking Friday at an economic forum in St. Petersburg, Russia, Putin avoided criticizing Trump for the move that has caused international opprobrium.

The Russian president underlined the importance of the Paris climate accord but noted that it’s a framework agreement offering broad room for maneuvering for each signatory nation.

Putin also said that Trump’s promise to negotiate new conditions for the U.S. leaves hope for reaching a compromise before the Paris deal is set to take effect in 2021. Putin added that U.S. participation is essential for the success of global efforts.

Reaction to U.S. withdrawal continued Friday. In Japan, a government official said the country has decided not to join Germany, France and Italy in expressing regret over Trump’s decision.

The official, who declined to be identified by name or affiliation and requested anonymity because he wasn’t authorized to speak publicly about the decision, said that Japan chose to issue its own statement, not as part of the group. He declined to give a reason or confirm whether any of the three countries had invited Japan to sign a joint statement.

The prime minister’s office said Japan shares the importance of the accord with those countries.

Japan’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement earlier Friday that the decision was “regrettable” but hoped to explore ways to cooperate with Washington to address climate change issues.

African nations joined in protesting the U.S. withdrawal as the world’s poorest continent seeks financial help in combating global warming.

South Africa’s government called the U.S. pullout “an abdication of global responsibility.”

The statement Friday by one of Africa’s largest economies says the decision damages the rule of law and “trust between nations.”

South Africa said the U.S. has a “moral obligation” to support poorer countries in the global effort against climate change.